The short answer
What the question actually means
A lock that needs a new key can be handled in two ways. A handyman might cut a new key or replace the whole lock, but they usually don’t have the tools or training to reset the lock’s internal pins. A locksmith, on the other hand, will rekey the existing lock—changing the pin configuration so the old key no longer works while keeping the hardware in place. Rekeying is faster, cheaper, and keeps your door’s security rating intact. In short, if you want the lock to work with a new key without swapping the whole unit, call a locksmith.
The key brands you’ll encounter are mostly pin‑tumbler systems from manufacturers like Schlage, Kwikset, and Medeco. These brands use standardized keyways, which means a locksmith can rekey them without needing a completely new lock. High‑security lines such as Medeco or Mul‑ti‑Key have extra pins or sidebars, requiring specialized tools but still rekeyable by a qualified locksmith. Knowing the brand helps the technician bring the right equipment the first time.
Pricing for a rekey job usually includes a service call, the cost of new key blanks, and the labor to change the pins. Expect a flat fee for the call, then a per‑key charge that covers the blank and the work. Choose a locksmith who explains each line item and offers a written estimate before starting. Common follow‑up questions include: “Do you need to see the lock first?” “Will the old keys be disabled?” and “Can you handle multiple doors in one visit?” Getting clear answers up front prevents surprise costs.
When a locksmith rekeys a lock, they first verify the lock type and remove the cylinder. Using a special tool, they push the pins out, then insert new pins that match the cuts on the new key you provide. After the pins are set, they reseat the cylinder, test the new key, and make sure the old key no longer turns. The whole process typically takes 10‑20 minutes per door, and the technician will clean up any debris and show you the new key before leaving.
Call a locksmith right away if you’ve lost a key, suspect a break‑in, or need to restrict access quickly. Waiting is fine only when you’re simply updating who has a key and there’s no security urgency. If the lock is damaged, the door is jammed, or you’re unsure which key fits, schedule the visit promptly. Delaying a rekey after a key loss can leave your home vulnerable, so act sooner rather than later.
The brands that matter
Major lock brands in this space include Schlage, Yale, Kwikset, Kaba, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, August, Level, Baldwin, Emtek, Adams Rite, and Von Duprin. Each has a niche: Schlage and Kwikset dominate American residential; Yale leads smart-lock retrofit; Kaba and Medeco own high-security commercial; Mul-T-Lock is the import-grade high-security choice; Adams Rite is the storefront standard; Von Duprin makes the panic bars on most commercial exits. Knowing which brand is on your door tells you a lot about what the service call will involve.
Pricing — what to expect
How to choose
Common follow-up questions
'Can I do this myself?' Sometimes — Kwikset SmartKey lets you rekey at home with the existing key, and most smart-lock retrofits are DIY-friendly. 'Should I replace or rekey?' Rekey if the cylinder is in good shape and you just want to change who has keys; replace if the cylinder is worn, damaged, or if you want a hardware upgrade. 'Do I need a high-security cylinder?' Usually no for residential — yes for commercial, rentals with frequent turnover, or any building where key control matters. Tenant locked out at 2am after a flat tire dropped them off late — toddler asleep in the car seat.
How locksmiths actually work the job
On a typical residential rekey, the tech removes the cylinder, replaces the pins to match a new key, reinstalls, and tests. Time on the door is 10–20 minutes per cylinder. On a lockout, the tech picks, bypasses, or — as a last resort — drills the cylinder, with replacement of the drilled cylinder included in the price. Car-key replacement involves cutting a blank, programming the transponder to the vehicle's immobilizer (using OEM or aftermarket programmers), and testing start and door-unlock. Smart-lock installs include physical install plus programming the keypad codes, the user accounts, and the Wi-Fi or hub integration.
When to call vs when to wait
Emergency calls are for true lockouts, security breaches, broken keys in cylinders, and any situation where you need a working door tonight. Planned calls are for upgrades, scheduled rekeys on rental turnovers, master-key installations, and any work that can wait 24–48 hours. The price difference between emergency and planned is 30–60% — paying the planned rate saves real money if you can wait. The exception is anything involving a security breach, where waiting can cost more in collateral damage than the emergency premium.
Bottom line
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